Springbok flanker Schalk Burger is the International Rugby Board's player of the year, and his Tri-Nations-winning team-mates have claimed most of the other major honours.

Jake White, who took over after the World Cup, was named coach of the year - and his Springboks held off grand slam winners France to win the team award and sweep the board.

``Schalk's emergence as a major force has meant a lot to South African rugby but has also influenced world rugby,'' said White.

``People have looked at the way he springs up so quickly from the tackle - he's like a bouncing ball. He's become to South African rugby what Jonty Rhodes was to South African cricket. It's amazing what he has achieved in such a short time so far in his international career.''

Burger last night topped a list which included Ireland centre Gordon D'Arcy, the RBS 6 Nations player of the year, and Australian star Matt Giteau who was central to the Wallabies' victory over England at Twickenham on Saturday.